By Jamie Martin
U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins recently toured Western North Carolina to evaluate the damage caused by wildfires and Hurricane Helene. The region has faced significant destruction, affecting forests, infrastructure, and local communities.
Secretary Rollins started her visit at the Blue Ridge Parkway, where she surveyed the hurricane’s impact on the landscape. She later attended a wildfire operations briefing led by the U.S. Forest Service, which provided updates on response efforts. Her visit concluded with a roundtable discussion in Asheville, where she engaged with local leaders, officials, and community members about ongoing recovery plans.
“I met with North Carolinians who have suffered unimaginable loss from recent natural disasters,” said Secretary Rollins. “The U.S. Forest Service was well-prepared, assessing wildfire risks in advance and strategically positioning resources to respond quickly. Thanks to their efforts, they were able to contain the fires swiftly. USDA continues to work closely with state and local agencies, as well as first responders, to support these communities and restore the public lands that so many rural residents depend on.”
During the roundtable, discussions focused on restoring damaged lands, improving disaster response strategies, and supporting affected communities. The USDA is actively working with local agencies to provide financial assistance and technical support to rebuild infrastructure and restore natural resources.
Secretary Rollins emphasized the need for long-term planning to strengthen disaster preparedness in rural areas. She assured community members that the USDA remains committed to helping farmers, landowners, and local residents recover from these disasters.
Her visit reinforced the importance of coordinated disaster relief efforts, highlighting the role of government agencies in rebuilding communities and protecting public lands for future generations.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: National